Hilarie Burton, known for her engaging performances on screen and her charming personality off-screen, gained fame as an actress in the bustling world of Hollywood. However, she soon realized that this was not where she truly belonged.
Known for her roles in The Walking Dead, Council of Dads, and even successful TV shows like Grey’s Anatomy, she is a successful actress, producer, and author. However, she has also spoken out about her struggles to fit in in Los Angeles and why she ultimately left Hollywood.
Hilarie Burton Thinks Places Like LA is Not for Her
Hollywood, with its shimmering lights and bustling streets, has been a magnet for aspiring actors and actresses for generations. However, for Hilarie Burton, this world was more alien than alluring.
In her 2020 memoir, The Rural Diaries, Burton writes about her experiences growing up in a small town and her journey to Hollywood. She describes how she always felt like an outsider in Los Angeles.
The One Tree Hill alum, while appearing on The View says:
“I never felt like I fit in in Los Angeles. I really was a fish out of water there. I needed to do tangible things with my hands to feel good about myself.”
She continues by saying:
“I realized that’s what makes me feel accomplished. Not necessarily what I am doing at work.”
In her eyes, life in Los Angeles offered her success, but it couldn’t provide the fulfillment she craved.
Hilarie Burton Spoke Out on S*xual Harassment and Discrimination in Hollywood
Hilarie Burton is one of many actresses who have spoken out about their experiences with s*xual harassment and discrimination in Hollywood. She broke her silence and spoke about the time when she was harassed in public by Ben Affleck. This goes back to 2003 when the actress was merely 21 years old.
Burton also said that she was “groomed” by the creator of One Tree Hill, Mark Schwahn, who allegedly subjected her to verbal abuse, inappropriate touching, and unwanted kisses. She said to PEOPLE:
“I was told that if you speak up, your career is over. You’ll be labeled a troublemaker.”
As a result, “I didn’t say anything for a decade,” said Burton. “And as a result of that, people were abused after me. The guilt that comes with that is really difficult.”
One Tree Hill was a huge success and she remains best known for her role as Peyton Sawyer.
You can stream the series One Tree Hill on Prime Video.
